Time Cleaning Or Maintaining:
In the ease of use category, sand filters are the undisputed winners. They are easy to operate and understand and easy to backwash, and you hardly ever need to go inside the tank for any reason. DE filters, by contrast, require adding a fresh charge of DE powder after each backwash, and every six months they will need to be opened up and hosed thoroughly and inspected for missing parts or damage. Cartridge filters can be very low maintenance when they are big enough, with cleaning needed only every three-four months, but if small, you could be opening up the filter every few weeks. Cleaning cartridges is not hard, but its going to be a while expect to spend at least 10 minutes per cartridge, hosing it carefully top to bottom. For best results with all filter types, use a pool filter cleaner annually to remove minerals and oily deposits.
When To Change Pool Filter Cartridge
Your pool filter is due for a change once your filter starts experiencing high pressure, when the cap becomes weak, when the fabric of the cartridge becomes fray and weak, and when the inner core of the cartridge breaks down.
Once you notice all of these or a few of them, know that it is time to change.
Best Value: Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
Filters up to: 6,000 gallons | Valve control: Yes | Type: Cartridge | Flow rate: 1,000 GPH
What we like:
Worth noting:
- Only good for small pools
Why we chose it: Small pools need constant filtration, too, and this inexpensive model gets the job done.
If you have a smaller aboveground pool or plunge pool in your yard, this tiny but powerful cartridge filter will do the trick. To noteits only good for pools with 6,000 gallons of water or less, as it filters 1,000 gallons per hour. Psst: This pump also uses the same simple cartridge filter style that Combee recommends, so installing it is a breeze. As long as you hook it up to a pool size no larger than its maximum , you should have immaculate water in no time.
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Yescom 16 Above Inground Swimming Pool Sand Filter W/valve Fit 1/2hp 3/4hp Water Pump
- Easy Operation 1 Handle for easily choosing the proper function as you like, 6-way valve operation, conveniently using
- 8 Hydraulically balanced laterals, speed up flow velocity of filtered water
- Pressure Watch show the working pressure, advanced full flow technology ensures superior flow rates and maximum filtration
- Rugged, durable construction provides for long lasting using lifespan
- Suggested Installation: 0.35HP 0.75HP pool pump, above-ground or in-ground pools
Features:
Which Pool Filter Is Best
Every swimming pool needs a pool filter. Without a functioning pool pump and filter, your water will inevitably turn green. However, which pool filter is best: sand, cartridge, or D.E. filter? We often encounter pool owners who are struggling to decide whether to keep their cartridge filter or to switch to sand or D.E.
Each filter has its own pros and cons and each pool owner has his/her own list of priorities, as well. Its important to keep your personal pool priorities in mind when choosing your filter.
The best pool filter for you is one that aligns best with your pool needs.
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Hayward S244t Proseries Sand Filter 24
The Hayward S244T ProSeries is another sand filter that tips the scale toward expensive in terms of these types of filters. With that said, it claims to be a dependable all-weather performer made of corrosion-proof materials.
This top-mount model can come in either a 6-position or 7-position VariFlo control valve. On this model, it uses 1-1/2-inch VariFlo. It features large pressure draining meant to help with rapid servicing or winterizing. This requires about 300lbs worth of sand to operate. By using full-flow technology, this sand filter attempts to help you cut back on energy costs.
Next on our best pool sand filter list, we have the Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump that features a built-in 24-hour time to offer you more convenience when maintaining your pool. This timer has 2 to 12-hour preset cycles. The filter has a 6-function control valve that does the following: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain, and close the system.
The pump flow rate for this filter should generate 3,000 GPH. As for the system flow rate, its about 2,450 GPH. This has a sand capacity of 120lbs, and it can work in above ground pools from 5,500 gallons to 19,600 gallons.
Hayward W3s220t Proseries Sand Filter
Best High-End Sand Filter
For many pool owners, sand filters offer an efficient way to achieve a sparkling clean pool. And with Haywards W3S220T ProSeries filter, you can have it, too. We like the Hayward ProSeries Sand Filter because its relatively low maintenance while keeping your pool looking its best.
The backwash function is handyno need to get messyand the upkeep is practically nil. You will need quite a bit of sand to get started, however. Most units need hundreds of pounds of sand, which you may not be able to purchase online.
But once the system is in use, you wont regret hauling bags of sand around, since they last such a long time. And in terms of performance, you cant beat this high-end filter.
- Must purchase sand separately
- Instructions can be difficult for users new to sand filters
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Salt Water Pool Sand Filter
This is the oldest style of filter and quite frankly Id avoid using them at this point in time since there are better options. As the name suggests, the inside of the filter unit contains a special type of sand. When water passes through the unit, debris gets attached to the sand allowing clean water to get returned to the pool.
But over time as more debris gets caught in the sand, the pressure gauge will increase, water flow will decrease as will filtration efficiency and you must then clean the filter by backwashing it. This involves opening a valve and running dirty water out of the filter through a hose to rinse it. This of course means refilling the pool with water to replace the flushed water which over time increased your water and chemical costs. Water chemistry can be negatively affected as a result.
You also need to find out ahead of time if you live in an area where draining pool water into storm sewers is restricted and whether or not you are allowed to refill a pool with tap water. You may need to truck water in at your expense.
How Much Is Pool Filter Cartridges
pool filter cartridges come in a variety of designs and pricing ranges. Its difficult to predict product costs nowadays. You dont know how much something costs because the pricing range is so vast. For example, a pair of pants can range from $20 to $200 depending on where you buy them. Similarly, additional goods like as pool filter cartridges.
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Best Choice Products Pro 2400gph 13
The Best Choice Products Pro Sand Filter is a budget-friendly option that doesnt sacrifice its value. Its meant for above ground pools up to 10,000 gallons. This doesnt have the best instructions for installing, but help is available online.
This sand filter is housed in a one-piece 13-inch thermoplastic tank with a capacity of 42lbs of sand. The self-priming pump features a top mounted 6-position multiport valve and a filtration rate of 2400 GPH. Lastly, this sand filter meets safety standards as it is ETL and UL listed, and its CSA certified.
Next, on our best pool sand filter list is the GAME Complete Sand Filter Unit that has an easy-to-use 4-position rotary valve. It filters, backwashes, rinses, and winterizes. This has a 40 GPM flow rate, and it is designed to work with above ground pools up to 15,000 gallons.
This SandPro 50D sand filter is known to be an energy-saver the ½ HP pump helps it maintain a lower energy cost without interfering with its functionality. Along with this sand filter, you get a large capacity hair and debris strainer basket that has a see-through lid.
De Pool Filters Vs Other Filters
Pool filters come in three options: sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE filters.
While sand filters and cartridge filters are capable alternatives and cheaper options, DE filters are preferred for their ability to remove smaller impurities in pool water.
They use diatomaceous earth powder on a filter grid to grab pollutants as water passes through the filter on its way back to the pool.
DE Filter Pros:
- Its the best pool filter, removing particles between 1 and 3 microns that are present in the water. In contrast, cartridge filters remove 10 microns, and sand filters remove 20 microns.
- Easy to install and DE powder is added through the skimmer
- DE powder is inexpensive at roughly a dollar per pound
DE Filter Cons
- Requires lots of maintenance. DE filters need to be disassembled after being backwashed. Deep cleaning the unit is also required once a year.
- Backwashing produces wastewater, and backwashing a DE filter may be prohibited depending on where you live.
- Most expensive filter type, averaging $800 to $900.
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Pentair 160317 Clean & Clear Cartridge Pool Filter
This 160317 Clean & Clear Cartridge Pool filter from Pentair brand is one of the best choices for any beginner with pool equipment. It is extremely easy to install and assemble. With detailed instructions from the manufacturer, you can handle it yourself within 1 hour.
Besides, this model also features the thermoplastic body tank with a coreless cartridge, which makes it easy for the owners to remove the cartridge for convenient cleaning and prolong the lifetime of the filter.
Like all other models from Pentair, this filter is equipped with easy spin-on unions for plumbing hook-ups.
Pros
- Thermoplastic body tank and a coreless cartridge
- Easy spin-on unions to serve plumbing hook-ups
Cons
- Do not operate well for above ground pools
Williams Take:
What Kind Of Sand Is Needed For A Pool Filter
Nailing the idea of simple nomenclature, most pool filter sand will be labeled Pool Filter Sand, making it relatively easy to find and buy. The actual type of sand most commonly used is silica sand, which is made up of mined ground quartz. We do not recommend using play sand or any other type of sand in your filter that is not labeled pool filter sand.
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Bestway Flow Clear Above Ground Pool Pump
First, we would like to discuss the Bestway Flow Clear Above Ground Pool Pumps. This is Bestways most basic pump and filter combination. It comes with most of their pool sets being sold on local and online stores. There are several versions of this type of filter pump, but with varying gallons per hour rating.
These pumps are fairly easy to set up so you can start using your Bestway pool right away. They are also easy to operate and the instructions are simple enough that any pool owner can understand and follow.
The Bestway Flow Clear Above Ground Pool Pump utilizes Type B filter cartridges that should be changed or replaced every two weeks for best results. Bestway highly recommends this pool pump for those with above ground pools that have a maximum water capacity of 300 to 15,200 gallons.
The Bestway Flow Clear Above Ground Pool Pump has the following models in its lineup:
Sand filters are a common choice for inground pool owners, but recent changes in technology have made them more accessible to above ground pool owners.
Sand filters are an excellent way to keep your pool water clean. The sand filters work by allowing the water from your swimming pool to flow through a canister that contains sand. The larger particles are unable to pass through, and the filtered water is pump back to your pool.
To know the basics of how the sand filter works, you can utilize this diagram.
Pros and Cons
Improves water quality better than traditional pool pumps
Higher initial costs
What Are Todays Most Popular Pool Filter Cartridges Models
There are many pool filter cartridges items accessible today for men and women seeking quality and reliability. Every pool filter cartridges model follows the same essential premise. But they appeal to various users.Its no secret that certain products appeal to specific populations. What if you could see which products were the most popular across all consumers? You can, and weve got the list. Check out our collection of products that appear to appeal to all ages, genders, and locations.
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Hayward C1200 Swim Clear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter
Hayward has long been a well-known and reliable brand among others on the market. Hence, this C1200 Swim Clear Plus filter, with its preeminence in quality, durability, and convenience, is always among the top-of-the-line products.
With a single extra-large cartridge of 120 square feet allowing maximum water flow, this cartridge filter is ideal for most medium-sized residential pools, about 10000 to 15000 gallons of water.
Besides, the thermoplastic-made filter body protects the cartridge inside from damaging and prolongs the lifetime of the filter.
Pros
- Not suitable for commercial pools
- The pressure gauge is a little bit vulnerable
Williams Take:
How Do I Change The Sand In My Pool Filter
In order to change the sand in a pool filter, first backwash the pool filter and then remove the drain plug to let the water drain. Then remove your filter cover and multiport valve. Next we recommend you cover your standpipe with a plastic bag or duct tape to prevent any sand from falling down it as you remove the sand. Removing the sand is next, and we recommend removing the old sand with a Shop Vac if you have, and if not, use a cap or gently use a small garden shovel.
It is important to be careful not to damage the fingers located at the bottom of your filter when doing this. After the sand is removed, rinse the inside of the tank and use a sponge to clean the inside of the filter. Reapply the drain plug and fill the tank about halfway with water, once this is done, gently add the new pool filter sand, spreading it evenly around.
Remove the tape or bag you used to cover the standpipe, then check the lids O-Ring and replace it if needed. Next, re-install the multiport valve and filter cover, along with all of the screws and unions. Backwash your filter for a few minutes, and then switch it from backwash to rinse. Set it to rinse for a couple of minutes and finally set your multiport valve to filter.
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Why Is My Pool Filter Blowing Out Sand
Generally speaking, sand coming from out of your pool filter is the tell-tale sign of a broken component somewhere within your pool sand filter. The two most common causes of this that we saw are a cracked lateral or a crack in your filters standpipe. If both of these components are in good shape with no damage, there is a possibility you could have a seal that is worn or broken somewhere within your filter.
Backwash Or Bump Cleaning
Like sand filters, a pressure gauge on the tank will let you know when its time to clean your D.E. filter. Typically, D.E. filters are backwashed just like sand filters. Some brands feature a bump handle, which lets you knock the used D.E. off the grids or fingers to clean.
Whether you backwash or bump the filter, youll need to add more D.E. powder after every cleaning. It can be difficult to determine exactly how much to add, so its especially important to disassemble and clean the filter by hand at least once a year.
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Best Pool Filter Type
- Sand filters are least effective but also the least expensive to buy and use.
- Cartridge filters are more effective but are more expensive to buy and use.
- DE filters are the most effective but are the most expensive to buy and use.
Determining the best filter for your pool will mean determining your feelings on water quality, price and maintenance. Your best pool filter may be the largest filter you can afford, no matter which filter type.
So remember: Go big! A sand filter that is oversized for your pool is a better purchase than an undersized DE filter. Larger filters require less maintenance and the filter media lasts longer. And when you really need them to clean up poor water conditions, larger pool filters will do so faster and better than smaller. They often prevent poor water conditions in the first place.
If youd like us to help you select the filter that will give you the most filter size for your buck, give us a call at 1-800-288-7946!
Pentair 160301 Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter
Designed with the maximum filter surface area to clean your water more quickly and efficiently than other filters, the Pentair Clean & Clear Plus has an effective filter area of 420 square feet. Internal and manual air relief make maintaining good water pressure easy. It filters 150 GPM inside a sturdy, injection-molded tank.
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Hayward Ec40ac Perflex Extended
If youre looking for serious cleaning and low maintenance, look no further than the Hayward Perflex Extended-Cycle. Featuring a cool bump mechanism that allows the D.E. Flex-Tubes to clean themselves, this model means minimal cleaning time. Its designed to minimize resistance, so it can maximize efficiency at lower horsepower.
